Activities about how to communicate online respectfully... social networking and cyber bullying

Create an activity or discussion about this video.

Discussion
What makes this video effective?
What is the main point?

What is a social networking site?
Why are they so popular?
Why do you personally use them?
Why do some people feel that it's okay to communicate differently online?
Who is affected when someone says something hurtful to another online? (maybe it's more than those two people... ) Could be worth mindmapping
How will this video effect the way you use social networking sites?
Should you delete messages that are harmful or hurtful?


Consider this advice

Strategies for young people to deal with cyberbullying

• Tell someone – The most important step is for you to talk to someone you trust about what is happening. This may be a parent, friend, teacher or counsellor.
• Don’t reply to bullying messages – This may make the situation worse. By replying, the bully gets what he or she wants. Often, if you don't reply, the bully will get bored and leave you alone.
• Block the cyberbully – Depending on the way that the bully is communicating with you, it may be possible to block their messages or texts. If you are not sure how, ask an adult to help you.
• Report the problem – Your school has policies against cyberbullying and can take action to stop it. Your ISP or phone provider may also be able to help. Websites like Facebook and MySpace have links where you can report abuse.
• Keep the evidence – Keeping copies of texts, emails, online conversations or voicemails as evidence can be useful if it comes to tracking the bully down.
• Change your contact details – Get a new user name for the internet, a new email account, a new mobile phone number and only give them out to your closest friends.
• Keep your username and passwords secret – Keep your personal information private so it doesn’t fall into the hands of someone who’ll misuse it.
• If messages are threatening or serious, get in touch with the police – Cyberbullying, if it’s threatening, is illegal and the police may be able to take action.